A Neighborhood Policing team recently launched a new operation to address the illegal use of off road bikes and quad-bikes across Abergele, Rhyd-Y-Foel and Llanddulas.
North Wales Police is working closely with the Forestry Commission Wales, Countryside Council for Wales and Conwy Council.
The aim of operation Kansa is to educate the general public about the correct and legal use of off road bikes and quads whilst taking action against those riding illegally.
Since Kansa started earlier this month several warning notices have been issued to off road bike and quad users.
Sgt Rob Taylor said: “Damage by off road motorcycles is of real concern in North Wales, especially when the offenders destroy a protected area such as Llanddulas.
“We have an excellent partnership with the Countryside Council for Wales and together with local officers we will be monitoring and patrolling the area of Llanddulas and if anyone is caught using the area with motorcycles, they will be dealt with firmly and may also end up having their vehicle seized.”
John Osley from the Countryside Council for Wales said: “Llanddulas SSSI is important for its woodland, herb-rich limestone grassland and dwarf shrub heath that support other rare flowers and butterflies such as the silver-studded blue. This vegetation occurs on thin, rocky soils and is very vulnerable and easily damaged by the tyres of quad bikes, motorcycles and mountain bikes.
“Continued periods of riding bikes within the SSSI create unacceptable damage to the special features and the rare flora and fauna. Once the woodland floor, turf and heath have been worn away by the tyre tracks and ruts these damaged areas do not to recover unless such activities stop.”
He added: “The intentional or reckless driving and riding of these bikes that destroys or damages any of the flora or fauna within the Llanddulas SSSI is an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a maximum penalty of £5,000.”
